Unit III: Substance Abuse and Its Impact on Family Systems

Transcription

1 Unit III: Substance Abuse and Its Impact on Family Systems Overview This unit will focus on knowledge and skills for working with kinship family systems in which there is substance abuse. The content of this unit relies upon materials developed specifically for training child welfare caseworkers who work with families that experience problems related to substance abuse. It is not designed to prepare caseworkers to treat addiction. The unit attempts to help the caseworker understand how substance abuse impacts the entire kinship system and child welfare decision making process, since the parent and the caregiver are both part of the kinship system that is affected by substance abuse. While this unit is no substitute for in-depth training on substance abuse, it is intended to assist child welfare caseworkers in gaining understanding of the impact of substance abuse on the individual and the kinship system. Substance abuse challenges the strengths and natural helping systems in many families. The compelling nature of addiction, the difficulty of recovery, and patterns of relapse and recovery all complicate the decision making process for families and the child welfare system when safety, permanency, and well-being of children are being considered. This unit stresses the caseworker's role in helping members of the kinship network understand the impact of substance abuse on all members of the network and the role they can play in the recovery process while keeping the focus on permanency, safety, and well-being of children. Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 102

2 Goals for Unit III: Substance Abuse and Its Impact on Family Systems This unit is intended to assist child welfare caseworkers in gaining: 1. understanding of the impact of substance abuse on the individual and the kinship system; 2. understanding of the ways that substance abuse challenges the family's strengths and natural helping traditions; 3. understanding of the compelling nature of addiction, the difficulty of recovery, and patterns of relapse and recovery; 4. the ability to incorporate knowledge of addiction, recovery and its impact on individuals and family systems into planning and decision-making; 5. the ability to help members of the kinship network understand the impact of substance abuse on all members of the network and the role they can play in the recovery process; 6. the ability to facilitate identification of and linkage to substance abuse treatment resources; 7. the ability to keep the focus on permanency, safety, and well-being of children when parental substance abuse is a barrier to reunification. Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 103

3 UNIT III DISCUSSION: Substance Abuse and Its Impact on Family Systems 3 The Child Welfare League of America (1990) has indicated that 80% of all cases of substantiated abuse and neglect are affected by chemical abuse. The Children s Defense Fund (1992) indicated that chemical abuse is one of the three most common reasons for children entering care. These staggering statistics clearly reveal the importance of understanding the many components of chemical abuse and dependency as it relates to the child welfare system. Understanding can be the bridge that allows caseworkers to build relationships with persons whose lives may be quite different than their own. There are many different types of understanding that the caseworker must acquire to facilitate their work with families affected by substance abuse. These types of understanding are listed in figure III-A. The types of understanding described at Figure III-A: A Training Model For Caseworkers Working With Persons With Chemical Abuse/Dependency Problems Designed by Joan Winston LCSW, CRADC Exploring attitudes and increasing knowledge Understanding the types of treatment and available resources Understanding relapse in relation to recovery Understanding the defenses of persons with chemical abuse and dependency problems Understanding factors that contribute to chemical abuse or dependency problems Understanding the role of the caseworker in professional relationship building Understanding dysfunctional family roles related to chemical abuse and dependency problems. Understanding the signs and symptoms of use, abuse, and addiction Understanding the types of chemicals and the differing effects Note: This model is to be examined from the bottom to the top. 3 Joan Winston LCSW, CRADC is the primary author of this discussion section. Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 104

4 the bottom of the figure provide the foundation for additional types and levels of understanding that successively build on this foundation. Understanding Drug Classifications and Effects Caseworkers need to be familiar with drug classifications and their physical and emotional effects. It is also important to learn about the addictive nature of moodaltering chemicals and the difficulty remaining abstinent from both a biological and a psychological perspective. It may also be helpful for caseworkers to read biographical or autobiographical books about the effects of an addiction on a person s life to better understand the compelling nature of chemical addiction. For caseworkers with a limited understanding of the differing drugs and their effects, it is useful to read material, watch videos, attend workshops, or attend self-help group meetings which may assist them in better understanding the addictive nature of drugs and the recovery process. Persons recovering from substance abuse often tell their stories at open meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous and other self-help groups. These stories often describe the overwhelming pain and loss that is endured as one continues to abuse alcohol or other drugs. These stories provide graphic pictures of the compelling nature of substance abuse and the difficulty faced by those who want to participate in recovery. It is important for caseworkers to also understand the biological impact upon children who are born prenatally exposed to chemicals such as heroine, cocaine, and alcohol. According to a 1988 survey of 36 hospitals throughout the United States, approximately one out of ten pregnant women were found to have ingested drugs while pregnant. Maternal alcohol use during pregnancy effects 50,000 babies per year in the Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 105

5 United States (Mitchell, Dale, Tencza & Tencza, 1994). Fetal alcohol syndrome (F.A.S.) is a pattern of mental, physical, and behavioral defects that develops in infants born to some women who drink alcohol heavily during pregnancy (NIAA, 1985). The incidence of F.A.S. is approximately one to three per 1,000 live births (NIAA, 1985). Fetal Alcohol Effects (F.A.E.) are those signs in children that have been linked to alcohol use during pregnancy by the mother but do not meet the criteria for F.A.S. (Little & Ervin, 1984). In a combined analysis of 20 studies on cocaine and pregnancy in 1991, it was discovered that few effects could be specifically attributed to cocaine usage. It is important for caseworkers to recognize that there is still no clear evidence of a crack baby syndrome that is as serious, as common, or even as well defined as F.A.S. Mothers who use cocaine heavily do have a high rate of premature births and miscarriages and also commonly have a low birth weight babies (Grinspoon, 1993). Many of the effects recognized in children who have been exposed to chemicals prenatally, such as cocaine and heroin, are related to the mother obtaining poor prenatal care, obtaining poor nutrition, and coping with illnesses, such as venereal diseases and AIDS, not simply exposure to the chemicals. Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Use, Abuse and Addiction The desire of human beings to mood-alter has always been present throughout mankind and will continue to be a part of the human condition. Chemicals provide one way for persons to alter their moods. To experiment with a chemical or occasionally use a chemical does not indicate an abuse or addictive problem. Persons who use a chemical and deny that they experience negative consequences and this is supported by collateral contacts, most likely do not have problems with chemicals. In this Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 106

6 situation, the chemical use is not a necessary part of their lives and is often viewed as a way to enhance already pleasurable experiences. The abuse of a chemical, on the other hand, is indicated by often ingesting more of a chemical than planned and experiencing negative consequences related to the usage. These consequences could range from having repeated hangovers to that of obtaining a traffic ticket for driving under the influence (DUI). Although these people are seeking to obtain a specific effect from chemicals, they are often able to change their usage patterns as a result of these negative consequences. Others who meet the criteria for the abusive use of chemicals may benefit from treatment and an abstinence program, although they do not meet the criteria for chemical dependence. Addiction is a biological dependence upon a chemical coupled with a psychological obsession with obtaining and using the chemical. This does not imply that persons who are addicted to a chemical must use it daily. It does mean that they are obsessively focused on the next period of use when they do use the chemical they will do so excessively. As most persons addicted to chemicals will say, I use to feel normal and to keep going. They no longer experience euphoria when using chemicals but simply use these chemicals to function. In some chemical addictions the only way the person is able to feel a positive sensation is from the use of the substance. This is a powerful reinforcer which compels people to continue using a substance regardless of the number of painful consequences. Some behaviors that are suggestive of intoxication may actually relate to a medical condition or to medications that are unrelated to chemical abuse or addiction. For example, a person who is moving into diabetic shock will often appear to be under the influence of mood-altering chemicals when in fact none were taken. Collateral contacts with previous caseworkers or other agencies involved in the case can be helpful in identifying potential chemical abuse or addiction problems. Contact with family members is an important way to gain information about possible signs or symptoms of addiction. It may be necessary to request that the person undergo a Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 107

7 thorough medical exam to determine the cause of the symptoms they display and to identify medical needs that may need to be addressed. Due to the extreme denial that is common with people who have chemical abuse or addiction problems, these collateral contacts may be the caseworkers only method of obtaining accurate information that may reveal signs and symptoms of chemical abuse or addiction. Understanding Dysfunctional Roles In Chemically-Dependent Families Many have written about the typical family roles that are often found in chemicallydependent families (Table III-B). Although common to some extent in most families, in chemically-dependent families these roles become rigid and entrenched parts of the family dynamics and individuals often feel helpless to escape these rigid roles. Each role is dependent upon the other roles in order for the family to continue functioning. A change in one family member s role will often have a reverberating effect upon the other family members roles. These roles are not to be utilized as labels for particular family members but are helpful in understand family dynamics. Labeling tends to inhibit caseworkers from recognizing each person as a unique individual and the Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 108

8 strengths inherent in each family member. When chemical abuse or addiction is suspected or identified in a family, it is important for caseworkers to search for the family roles and recognize that these roles may also apply to relatives that are acting as caregivers and other kin. This will assist the caseworker in understanding the intergenerational family dynamics of substance abuse and their effects upon the children who are placed in a relative foster placement. Understanding the family dynamics of chemical dependency is crucial for Figure III-B: Family Roles in Chemically- Dependent Families Rescuer/Enabler: Often steps in to save the addict, bails the addict out, makes excuses or fills in for the addict. Shielding the addict from consequences of substance abuse makes it easier for the addict to continue using. Hero/Caretaker: Tries to divert attention away from the problem by being too good to be true, secretly hoping that exemplary behavior will somehow make it easier for the addict to stop using. High achievers who do everything to assure that the addict has as little responsibility as possible, minimizing the possibilities for trouble to occur. Adjuster/Lost Child: Behaves apathetically to distance self from pain; passively withdraw from upsetting situations; hurting but attempts to avoid feeling the pain by refusing to confront the addiction or its consequences. Scapegoat/Rebel: Draws attention away from the family's primary problem of dependency through delinquency or other misbehavior; reacts to feeling trapped by the situation at home by poor school performance, hostility and other behavior problems. Mascots/Pleasers: Also draw attention away from the family by trying to please, by acting in a humorous way; the clown. Adapted from Mitchel, W., Dale, M. L., Tencza, B. A. & Tencza, C. B. (1994). A piece of the puzzle: Understanding substance abuse for family services (participant's guide). Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, Professional Development Centers and Florida International University Department of Social Work, Institute on Children and Families at Risk, p. 36. caseworkers to be able to assist the family in coping with a family member who continues to abuse chemicals or in coping with the return home of the child to a recovering parent. Family members need to be encouraged by caseworkers to become involved in the chemical dependency treatment process as it is permitted. This creates an atmosphere which can encourage family healing and create a more conducive environment for recovery. Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 109

9 It is critical that caseworker s involve children, including those who are in foster care, in the chemical-dependency treatment process of their parent(s) whenever possible. This creates many opportunities for the children to learn to cope with chemical dependency with the support of other children and adults and at the same time witness the changes in parents as they become sober. All children who have grown up with a parent who has a chemical abuse or dependence problem experience some effects of their parent s addiction. Caseworker s need to recognize that older children and teens who have taken care of a chemically dependent parent for many years will have an especially difficult time in adjusting to their parent becoming sober. The kinship caregivers and caseworkers of these teens can be especially helpful in validating the importance of this caretaking role in keeping their family functioning, while encouraging them to pursue more of their own current interests as teenagers. It is important to let these teens make the changes at their own pace, recognizing that they feel a strong sense of loss in no longer being the main caretaker in the family. Referrals to family therapists with expertise in substance abuse can be helpful to many families struggling to understand substance abuse, the roles family members play, and ways of changing these roles. Understanding these roles is helpful for the caseworker who may be able to assist family members in examining their own behaviors and the way that their relative s substance abuse problem has had an impact on their own lives. Often, families with rich traditions of extended family support and shared caregiving find themselves trapped in a pattern of protecting and caring for the family member with a substance abuse problem. When this substance abuse problem places children at risk of harm, it is important to help family members direct their natural inclination to help toward the care and protection of the children as their first priority. Helping family members shift their primary allegiance to the children helps family members disengage from dysfunctional family roles and involves the family in permanency planning. Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 110

10 Understanding the Role of the Caseworker in Professional Relationship Building The most important step that caseworkers can take in working with persons who may have a substance abuse or dependency problem is to build professional working relationships with them. It is important that they feel heard and understood by their caseworkers. The caseworker s persistent and genuine attempts to understand the perspective of the person experiencing a substance abuse problem are first steps in this process. Caseworkers can respond empathically, expressing genuine concern and interest and checking out the accuracy of their understanding of the person s experience. Responding empathically does not indicate agreement with all statements made by the person or approval of their behaviors. Rather, responding empathically demonstrates genuine attempts to understand the person s frame of reference. People with chemical abuse or dependency problems are especially sensitive to nonverbal cues, so it is important that the caseworker s words and nonverbal behaviors match. Mitchell, Dale, Tencza and Tencza (1994) list 13 suggestions for working with persons who experience substance abuse problems and their families. These suggestions have Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 111

11 been revised slightly to balance the needs of parents with substance abuse problems, their family, their children, and the child welfare system (Figure III-C). Understanding Factors That Contribute To Chemical Abuse or Dependency Figure III-C: The Art of Relationship Building 1. Engender Hope. 2. Use some self-disclosure of commonalities. 3. Demonstrate warmth and emphasize positive motivation. 4. Communicate the attitude that the family's problem is of real importance. 5. Convey sensitivity to the family's feelings through voice tone and body language. 6. Match the person/family's pace of speech. 7. Validate the person's experience and perception of an event. 8. Attempt to engage and improve self-esteem by eliciting responses from all family members and making positive comments about each family member. 9. Demonstrate a good sense of humor. 10. Focus on strengths more than weaknesses. It is important for caseworkers to also be aware of the factors that contribute to chemical abuse and dependency. These factors 11. Be sensitive to the pace set by family members in working on problems, while placing the needs of the child first and focusing on permanency, safety 12. Demonstrate awareness of cultural strengths and differences. 13. Facilitate empowerment by doing with not for, focusing on person's own dreams and goals. Modified adaptation from Mitchel, W., Dale, M. L., Tencza, B. A. & Tencza, C. B. (1994). A piece of the puzzle: Understanding substance abuse for family services (participant's guide). Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, Professional Development Centers and Florida International University Department of Social Work, Institute on Children and Families at Risk, p. 40. include: the selfmedicating properties of chemicals, dual diagnosis issues, discrimination, poverty, and gender issues. Gelm and Drew (1989) described in their article a study completed by Dr. Khantzian, the principal psychiatrist for substance abuse at Cambridge Hospital. He completed a study with chemically-addicted patients in which he explored the Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 112

12 relationship between a chemically addicted patient s drug of choice and their need to alleviate problems and emotional pain. What he discovered is quite significant. Patients did, in fact, choose specific drugs to meet specific emotional needs. This is especially significant for caseworkers to recognize in working with persons who have a chemical abuse or dependency problem in that it may provide some insight as to the issues that underlie the substance abuse and difficulties in providing adequate care for the children. Khantzian s research indicated that alcohol was chosen as a drug of choice based upon its disinhibiting effects in that it was chosen by those who had difficulty expressing their feelings. Those who chose opiates as their drug of choice, on the other hand, were found to have chosen this type of drug due to its ability to mute intense affect. The patients who chose an opiate as their drug of choice tended to be aggressive and violent and often had histories of physical or sexual abuse. Stimulants such as amphetamines and cocaine were chosen for their energizing properties. These drugs were appealing to many patients, those feeling high and those feeling low. Those feeling low and depressed were given energy and enthusiasm by these types of drugs, while those already feeling high or overactive felt even more energized by these types of drugs. Caseworkers also need to be aware that dual diagnosis issues are highly correlated with chemical abuse and dependency. Dual diagnosis means that an individual has both a substance abuse problem and a psychiatric disorder. Grinspoon, the editor of the Harvard Mental Health Letter (1993), indicated in a study of 300 patients seeking treatment for a cocaine problem that 53% had a present and 73% had a past psychiatric disorder apart from chemical abuse. The most common disorders mentioned were: depression, anxiety, antisocial personality disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatric disorders may precede the chemical abuse, may occur during the period of chemical abuse, or may surface after a person is in a Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 113

13 period of abstinence from chemical use. Many people who have a dual diagnosis are utilizing chemicals to cope with their psychiatric disorders or cope with the unpleasant side-effects of their psychotropic medication, such as a feeling of anhedonia or restlessness. These types of disorders are to be diagnosed by substance abuse specialists or mental health specialists who can then refer the person for treatment programs that are designed to treat dual diagnosis. It is also important for caseworkers to understand that the specialized needs of women who have chemical abuse or dependency problems are often misunderstood or even ignored within the child welfare system. These women often have the additional burden of coping with poverty, discrimination, and oppression. Goldberg (1995) has indicated that oppression has created and maintained chemical abuse and dependency among women. He further stated that oppression interferes with access to and the receiving of appropriate services for these women. Goldberg defines oppression as systemic harm that people with more power do to people with less power (1995, p. 791). This sense of powerlessness can be easily seen in many of the women who have chemical abuse or dependency problems as they describe being discriminated against in the work place, as single parents, and as they attempt to advance professionally. Some women abuse chemicals to cope with the effects of violence. According to Goldberg (1995), women are more likely than men to experience sexual violence, both as children and as adults; women are more likely to be injured in domestic violence than men; and women have minimal protection against violence by law enforcement procedures than men. Women who have chemical abuse or dependency problems are further discriminated against in that they experience many negative cultural stereotypes that are often not placed upon males with the same problem. Pregnant women with substance abuse problems are often strongly stigmatized by others, even caseworkers. It is important for caseworkers to understand that although these women are pregnant, Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 114

14 they often have a minimal sense of the child in utero and a minimal sense of bonding to the child as the chemical usage often blocks these interactions. Most women who used chemicals and during pregnancy verbalize a great deal of guilt and remorse as they become chemically free that they had little opportunity to experience the pregnancy during periods of using chemicals. These stereotypes make it easier for women to be exploited during their period of chemical use and during recovery. Few chemical dependency treatment programs are designed to meet the specialized needs of women in treatment. Child care services are often not provided and many women have to choose between receiving treatment or caring for their children. Many programs are not easily accessible to women and the programs often are not designed with their needs in mind. Caseworkers need to identify effective programs that meet the needs of women and advocate for the creation of more programs that are sensitive to the needs of women who are recovering from a chemical abuse or dependency problem. The child welfare system often perpetuates this pattern of oppression and negative stereotyping by expecting women who have chemical abuse or dependency problems to spontaneously recover from their problem without providing an adequate opportunity for treatment, recovery, and family healing. It is helpful for caseworkers to list all of the pejorative terms that they associate with women who have substance abuse problems and compare it to a list of terms that they associate with males who have the same problem. This exercise may reveal stereotypes that interfere with effective work with women with substance abuse problems. Goldberg (1995) has highlighted other information which is helpful in understanding women who have chemical abuse/dependency problems. Women who have chemical abuse or dependency problems experience a phenomenon known as telescoping in relation to their chemical use. This phenomenon is one in which women experience the negative physical consequences of substance abuse quicker than males. This situation also helps to foster negative stereotypes against women Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 115

15 who have a chemical abuse or dependency problem. This phenomenon most likely relates to women experiencing regular monthly hormonal changes, experiencing pregnancy, and having a reduced ability to detoxify specific chemicals than men. The latter refers to the fact that women have more body fat in their bodies than do men. Alcohol is not fat soluble which means that the concentration of alcohol in a woman s blood will be higher than that of a man. It has also been discovered that women have a smaller quantity of dehydrogenase which is a protective enzyme that breaks down alcohol in the stomach. This means that women absorb approximately 30% more alcohol into their bloodstreams than men of the same weight, drinking the same amount of alcohol. There is a high correlation between women who have chemical abuse or dependency problems and their having been sexually abused as a child. There is also a high correlation between a woman becoming chemically dependent and having been physically abused by her father during childhood and having one or both parents who drank alcohol. It is also important to note that having a partner who abuses chemicals is more likely to lead to substance abuse in women than in men (Goldberg, 1995). Family violence is also highly correlated with chemical abuse and dependency. Chemicals may be used as a method of avoiding violence or to create a situation that increases the likelihood of violence occurring whether it is ingested by the perpetrator or the victim of the violence or both. Understanding the Defenses of Person s With Substance Abuse Problems Caseworkers often identify difficulty coping with the defense mechanisms utilized by persons who have a chemical abuse or dependence problem. Initially it is necessary for most persons experiencing chemical abuse or dependency to maintain their Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 116

16 addiction. While the use of these defense mechanisms will reduce with a period of abstinence, these defenses can be frustrating to the caseworker when they are used. Caseworkers may experience anger, may feel attacked or challenges, and may be tempted to respond impulsively by expressing personal feelings or responding in a punishing and retaliatory way. When clients use defenses they are often described as resistant or reluctant. Kennedy and Charles (1990) have identified several methods of coping with resistant or reluctant clients. Resistant clients use defenses such as denial to ward off anxiety and to prevent learning of the truth about themselves. The use of these defenses is rather automatic and the persons using the defenses are not fully conscious that they are using them. The reluctant client is defined as being neither motivated nor interested in participating in therapy and attends treatment sessions only because of some form of external pressure. These two types of defensive behaviors are especially common with persons who have chemical abuse or dependency problems. The resistant client with a chemical abuse or dependency problem will often utilize silence, excessive talking, not talking in specifics, and creating a scene as methods of preventing the clientcaseworker relationship from deepening. Kennedy and Charles have identified that it is important for caseworkers to attempt to identify the feelings underneath that the person may be expressing. In this way, caseworkers can respond to the process occurring rather than the content of these interactions. Persons with chemical abuse or dependency problems are usually quite adept at manipulating others in order to continue their addictive behaviors. This manipulative behavior will most likely occur with caseworkers as well, in the form of flattery, compliments, invitations, and sexualized behavior. It is important to recognize that these behaviors are difficult to cope with and will often engender anger and frustration. This resistive behavior is also a method of preventing others from recognizing the persons fragility and strong sense of powerlessness. The effective use of individual or group supervision is one of the Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 117

17 best ways for caseworkers to cope with feelings related to these manipulative behaviors that persons with substance abuse problems often exhibit. Reluctant clients with chemical abuse or dependency problems often utilize two forms of defense; (1) silence combined with a glare or body language that is often interpreted as hostile, and (2) persistently questioning the competence of the caseworker (Kennedy & Charles, 1990). Most caseworkers have a strong desire to win over clients who are reluctant. This is an ineffective method of responding to this type of defense. It is often more helpful to acknowledge that the person may be unwilling to participate in case management but feels forced to do so. By validating this reality, clients are provided with an opportunity to explore their feelings about the casework relationship. Most persons with chemical abuse or dependency problems are reluctant to receive any type of assistance that may threaten their addictive patterns. Caseworkers need to keep in mind that accepting any type of assistance may feel like admitting to failure or being viewed as crazy. It is also likely that caseworkers will be viewed as extensions of the child welfare system that already has some control and often a great deal of control over their lives. Child welfare caseworkers must be able to express their genuine concern for parents and interest in them as individuals, while indicating that their first priority must be the pursuit of safety, permanency, and wellbeing for the child. Understanding Relapse in Relation to Recovery Relapse is described as a return to the use of mood-altering chemicals after a period of abstinence. Persons who are in early recovery from chemical abuse or dependency often are quite mistrustful of others, have poor social skills, and have limited methods of coping with painful feelings. As the chemical usage become more and more a part of Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 118

18 their lives, their non-using friends, family, and kinship network become a more distant part of their lives. Many persons who admit to having a chemical dependency problem, in fact, will state that their drug of choice was their best friend, confidant, and lover. Thus, relapse would be a likely occurrence early in recovery, as chemicals had been such a large part of their lives leaving a void which will not easily be filled. The compelling effects of drugs, such as cocaine, are also quite alive in the memory of newly recovering persons and can easily lead to relapse, especially during periods of frustration or depression. The child welfare system can add to the frustration level of newly recovering persons by creating unrealistic expectations, for example, expecting that the parent will never relapse. Recovering parents also become frustrated agreements that they make with caseworkers are not fulfilled by the child welfare system. Caseworkers can assist in preventing relapse by being actively involved in discharge plans as recovering parents move from one level of treatment to another, rather than simply expecting treatment providers to create these plans. Advocacy by caseworkers can be highly influential in creating realistic discharge plans. When relapse occurs, the caseworker can encourage clients to make contact with support systems that had been helpful prior to the relapse period or assist in finding new recovery support systems. Caseworkers can also make collateral contacts with the current therapist, twelve-step sponsors, and other treatment personnel once relapse has occurred. These contacts can assist caseworkers in understanding the meaning of relapse for a particular person. This information can then be brought into the administrative case reviews or court hearings as a way of assisting the child welfare system and the court in understanding the relapse episode rather than simply responding to it in a punitive manner. Random urine screens can be an effective tool for maintaining sobriety if it is utilized in conjunction with chemical dependency treatment. Clients are more accepting of this process when it is monitored by treatment providers as part of a larger recovery plan. Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 119

19 Understanding the Types of Treatment and Available Resources It is imperative that caseworkers understand the different types of clinical treatment for chemical abuse or dependency problems. Substance abuse treatment can be divided into two broad categories, that of in-patient and out-patient. The former refers to chemical abuse or dependency treatment that is provided in the same setting in which clients live. The different types of in-patient treatment include detoxification units, halfway houses, and residential treatment programs. Halfway houses provide opportunities for clients to live in drug-free environments that encourage them to make outside contacts which will assist them as they plan a recovery lifestyle. Residential treatment stays are typically between six to twenty-four months in length and clients have limited contact with those outside of that setting. Out-patient treatment is any type of treatment for clients with chemical abuse or dependency programs in which clients do not live at their treatment facility. These programs range from one-hour of treatment on a weekly basis to intensive day treatment programs for six to eight hours on a daily basis. Self-help programs are a form of treatment that is based upon the principles of peer guidance, leadership, and assistance. These programs are lead by recovering individuals who have found methods of remaining abstinent from chemicals or some other unhealthy behavior and have a desire to assist others in recovery. Twelve-step programs specifically follow a twelve-step plan for recovery and encourage members of this program to find sponsors. Sponsors are recovering individuals who have maintained a consistent period of abstinence from mood-altering chemicals and desire to act as mentors for those new in recovery. Self-help programs have a strong history of effectively supporting those in recovery from chemical abuse or dependency in a manner that meets the differing needs of those in recovery. Caseworkers are strongly Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 120

20 encouraged to attend self-help meetings to assist them in better understanding recovery issues. Most communities have specific resource guides which can assist caseworkers in finding referrals for assessment, treatment, and discharge planning. Building relationships with these treatment resources can assist caseworkers in more effectively meeting the needs of their clients for treatment and in bridging the gap between treatment resources and the child welfare system. Caseworkers need to be sensitive to the needs of women who have chemical abuse or dependency problems and to identify substance abuse treatment programs that specifically focus on the needs of women. It is important for caseworkers to visit their clients while they are in treatment. This gives a clear message that the caseworker cares about them and will continue to be a support upon discharge from the treatment program. In some cases, the caseworker may be the only person that the recovering person can count upon as a support for them in their early recovery. Exploring Attitudes and Increasing Caseworker s Knowledge Base It is important for all child welfare caseworkers to attend workshops, training, and college courses which can provide opportunities for them to increase their knowledge base in specific areas of chemical abuse and dependency and related issues. Excellent materials are available in written, video, and cassette form which can also increase their knowledge base. It can to review and discuss these materials in a group supervisory process or in discussions with peers. Caseworkers also need to consistently monitor their own attitudes toward clients with chemical abuse or dependency problems, as these attitudes may shift over time. Workshops that assist caseworkers in exploring their attitudes and beliefs toward Bonecutter & Gleeson, Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care: A Training Manual 121

FAMILY PROGRAM Addiction takes a toll not only on the individual, but on the family, as well. When using, addicts are selfish and selfcentered; their wants and needs are placed ahead of the ones they love.

Drug Abuse and Addiction Introduction A drug is a chemical substance that can change how your body and mind work. People may abuse drugs to get high or change how they feel. Addiction is when a drug user

Protection of the Rights of Children and Women Suffering from Drug Addiction in the Family and Society - Shelter Don Bosco, Mumbai, India - Article 24 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child recognizes

County Public Health ADDICTION RECOVERY CENTERS (ARC) www.countyarc.org We offer some of the best evidence-based outpatient treatment services for men, women, and teens in the State of Colorado. We offer

Services Child Protection A Guide for Larimer County Parents This booklet was prepared by the Program Committee of the Larimer County Child Advocacy Center in consultation with the Larimer County Department

Common Drug Rehab Concerns Does drug rehab work? How do I find the right treatment program for my loved one s needs? Does my loved one need to detox prior to entering rehab? Can my loved one leave rehab

Minnesota Co-occurring Mental Health & Substance Disorders Competencies: This document was developed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services over the course of a series of public input meetings held

Dual Diagnosis Dr. Ian Paylor Senior Lecturer in Applied Social Science Lancaster University Dual diagnosis has become a critical issue for both drug and mental health services. The complexity of problems

Gainful Employment Information The Field of Counseling Job Outlook Veterans Administration one of the most honorable places to practice counseling is with the VA. Over recent years, the Veteran s Administration

How HOLiSTIC REHAB Benefits You Table of Content Holistic Rehab Centers are More Popular than Ever The Need for Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Programs Alcohol Abuse and Addiction These Issues Need Treatment

Interpersonal Violence and Teen Pregnancy: Implication and Strategies for Community-Based Interventions Mission: To engage, educate and empower youth to build lives and communities free from domestic and

Maternal Substance Use & Abuse A Charged and Complex Problem that Requires a Reasoned and Coordinated Response Across Agencies, Fund Sources & Systems The Scope of the Problem In the US: 9% of all children

Substance Abuse Treatment Services Struggling with drugs or alcohol? We can help. 303 730 8858 admhn.org Sarah s Story I was born into chaos, says Sarah a recovering addict. Raised by parents who abused

American Society of Addiction Medicine Public Policy Statement on Treatment for Alcohol and Other Drug Addiction 1 I. General Definitions of Addiction Treatment Addiction Treatment is the use of any planned,

SUBSTANCE ABUSE & DEPRESSION: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW TABLE OF CONTENTS What is Depression? 4 Symptoms of Depression 6 Substance Abuse as a Coping Mechanism 8 Which Occurs First? 10 Substance Abuse and the

SAMPLE TRAINING TOPICS AND HANDOUTS Here are some sample topics for use in training advocates and other community providers about multi-abuse trauma issues, along with suggestions for handouts to use with

DrugFacts: Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction NOTE: This is a fact sheet covering research findings on effective treatment approaches for drug abuse and addiction. If you are seeking treatment, please

Module 2: Understanding Addiction, Recovery, and Recovery Oriented Systems of Care This module reviews the processes involved in addiction and what is involved in recovering an addiction free lifestyle.

Phoenix House Outpatient Treatment Services for Adults in Los Angeles and Orange Counties Phoenix House s outpatient programs offer comprehensive and professional clinical services that include intervention,

Developing a path to employment for New Yorkers with disabilities Community and Social Services Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers... 1 Health Educators... 4 Substance Abuse and Behavioral

Heroin Introduction Heroin is a powerful drug that affects the brain. People who use it can form a strong addiction. Addiction is when a drug user can t stop taking a drug, even when he or she wants to.

Gainful Employment Information The Field of Counseling Job Outlook Veterans Administration one of the most honorable places to practice counseling is with the VA. Over recent years, the Veteran s Administration

LEVEL III.5 SA: SHT TERM RESIDENTIAL - Adult (DUAL DIAGNOSIS CAPABLE) Definition The following is based on the Adult Criteria of the Patient Placement Criteria for the Treatment of Substance-Related Disorders

Understanding NICE guidance Information for people who use NHS services Antisocial personality disorder NICE clinical guidelines advise the NHS on caring for people with specific conditions or diseases

Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction NOTE: This is a fact sheet covering research findings on effective treatment approaches for drug abuse and addiction. If you are seeking treatment, please call 1-800-662-HELP(4357)

CHRONIC PAIN AND RECOVERY CENTER Exceptional Care in an Exceptional Setting Silver Hill Hospital is an academic affiliate of Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry. SILVER HILL HOSPITAL

Therapy and Professional Training Specialists www.mifamilytherapy.com Help When it s Needed Everyone at some point is faced with challenges that require extra thought and attention. Most of the time people

4 4 5 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 3 DRUG REHAB FOR TEENAGERS Discovering that a teen is taking drugs or alcohol is worrisome. Parents not only worry about the impact on a child s health, but also the possible impact

Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction NOTE: This is a fact sheet covering research findings on effective treatment approaches for drug abuse and addiction. If you are seeking treatment, please call the

Traumatic Stress and Substance Use Problems The relation between substance use and trauma Research demonstrates a strong link between exposure to traumatic events and substance use problems. Many people

Naltrexone Pellet Treatment for Opiate, Heroin, and Alcohol Addiction Frequently Asked Questions What is Naltrexone? Naltrexone is a prescription drug that effectively blocks the effects of heroin, alcohol,

GDC Session #3 The Process of Recovery: Part II Objectives of Session 1. Identify emotional and physical symptoms of withdrawal from cocaine and other substances. 2. Identify stages of recovery from cocaine

Addiction Recovery Services The Region s Premier Provider of Behavioral Health and Addiction Recovery Services How Many People Experience Behavioral Health Issues? You d be surprised at how many. Anyone

caring FOR A CHILD who has been impacted by substance abuse WHERE CAN CAREGIVERS FIND HELP? Caregivers may need guidance and support as they respond to the attachment needs of vulnerable children. Help

Chapter 23 Women and Addiction The following points for consideration on the portrayal of women and addiction were developed as a resource for entertainment development and production. They are not meant

Workforce Development Online Workshop Descriptions Behavioral Health Service Delivery Workshops: The Effects of Violence Exposure on Children (1.5 hours) Regretfully, violence against children and youth

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Social Workers Summary Social workers help people in every stage of life cope with challenges, such as being diagnosed with depression. 2012 Median Pay Entry-Level Education

FAMILY THERAPY CAN HELP FOR PEOPLE IN RECOVERY FROM MENTAL ILLNESS OR ADDICTION U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Center for Substance

The Clinical Level of Care Guidelines contained on the following pages have been developed as a guide to assist care managers, physicians and providers in making medical necessity decisions about the least

1 Statistical facts associated with addiction and substance abuse are concerning, but many men and women choose to ignore the dangers. By understanding the main causes of addiction to drugs, it is possible

Handout for Victim Advocates Common Questions and Brain based Answers Jim Hopper, Ph.D. October 2015 Part 1: How to Use the Neurobiology of Trauma Responses and Resources Note: To effectively use the answers

THE OFFICE OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROVISION OF RESIDENTIAL DETOXIFICATION SERVICES BY PROVIDERS FUNDED WITH DBHDS RESOURCES PURPOSE: The goal of this document is to describe the

TM Understanding Depression The Road to Feeling Better Helping Yourself Your Treatment Options A Note for Family Members Understanding Depression Depression is a biological illness. It affects more than

Alcoholism and Its Effect on the Family Tetyana Parsons December 14, 2003 According to the Random House Dictionary of the English Language (1966), alcoholism is defined as a diseased condition due to the

Psychotic Disorders Introduction Psychotic disorders are severe mental disorders that cause abnormal thinking and perceptions. These disorders cause people to lose touch with reality. As a result, people

WITH OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, Unity Chemical Dependency is the Rochester area s most experienced and comprehensive treatment provider. Our highly trained and dedicated team of counselors and physicians

Substance Abuse Treatment Alternatives What You Should Know Tim Chapman, CSAC February 1 4, 2009 Introduction The purpose of this white paper is to provide information that will help you better understand

Performance Standards Co-Occurring Disorder Competency Performance Standards are intended to provide a foundation and serve as a tool to promote continuous quality improvement and progression toward best

Drug & Alcohol Treatment Facility Huntington Beach, CA Welcome to s industry leading addiction treatment program. We want to thank you for taking the time to look through our materials and hope that we

Agency of Human Services Practice Guidelines for the Identification and Treatment of Co-occurring Mental Health and Substance Abuse Issues In Children, Youth and Families The Vermont Practice Guidelines

Substance Use Services and Supportive Housing Organizations working in supportive housing will find it necessary to address issues of alcohol and illegal drug use among the tenancy. Although alcohol and

1 About drugs Drugs are substances that change a person s physical or mental state. The vast majority of drugs are used to treat medical conditions, both physical and mental. Some, however, are used outside

Trauma and the Family: Listening and learning from families impacted by psychological trauma Focus Group Report A summary of reflections and remarks made by Baltimore City families impacted by trauma and

The Many Facets of Social Work The scope of social work practice is remarkably wide. Social workers practice not only in the traditional social service agency, but also in elementary schools; in the military;

Counselors are standing by 24/7 waiting for your free call 1-800-861-1768 thewatershed.com Believe Again in Life. In The future. In Yourself. At The Watershed, our passion is helping addicts and alcoholics

Orientation and Welcome Seven Recovery Tasks 1 2 Orientation and Welcome Dear Recovering Friend, Welcome to this program, to this process, of recovery, growth and development. The material which follows

Program Description Staffed by highly experienced psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses and addiction specialists, we are committed to working collaboratively with referring providers. Program